Birth date: Aug 29, 1958 Death date: May 14, 2025
Shirley Jo Henson, 66, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma passed away on May 14, 2025. She was born on August 29, 1958 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. She is survived by her sons Ryan, and wife Kristen, Brown; and Ty Henson; and grandchildren Read Obituary
Shirley, I have so many fond memories of you. I remember when I was shorter than you. Ryan was my best friend in high school. He lived with me when your first grandchild was born. He lived with me when your youngest Ty was born. I dated your little sister Heather who was my cousin Mistys best friend. I married your daughter-in-law Brandi's cousin Michelle and had two kids with her that are the cousins of your grandkids. I got to add you to my extensive family tree, which as an amateur geneologist, that matters to me. You were a second mother to me.
It breaks my heart that I have to add that passing date to your chart. It breaks a lot of hearts. You were loved by so many. I wont mention any names out of the fear I'll forget to mention someone. I don't want anyone to feel slighted. This is a loss that hits a lot of people. I will miss you and love you dearly, mom.
Today we lay Sister to rest. Here's an obituary I wrote for her.
Obituary for Shirley "Sister"
In the grand tapestry of life, there are threads that shine brighter than others, and Shirley, affectionately known as "Sister," was undoubtedly one of those radiant threads. She was a friend, a mother, a sister, and a confidant to many, weaving joy and laughter into the lives of everyone she touched.
Sister had a magical way of turning her living room into a vibrant gathering place, where the neighborhood kids would flock to listen to cool music and share even cooler stories. Whether it was Ryan and his friends or Ty and his crew, her home was a sanctuary of fun and friendship, filled with laughter that echoed long after the music stopped. She had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel welcome, as if her home was a second home for all of us.
With a heart as big as her smile, Sister adopted us kids as her own, and she never wavered on her promise to always be there for us. She was the kind of person who would drop everything to lend a listening ear or offer a comforting word. Her love for her sons and grandchildren was boundless, and she wore her pride like a badge of honor. She embraced our music, celebrated our friendships, and cherished our children, showering us all with a reverence that made us feel truly special.
Sister was a master of hugs—those warm, enveloping embraces that spoke volumes about her love and affection. Each hug was a reminder that we were cherished, and her smile could light up even the darkest of days, radiating warmth and joy throughout any room. It was in those moments, wrapped in her embrace, that we felt the world was a little brighter and a little kinder.
Her laughter was infectious, a melody that could lift spirits and turn a mundane day into a celebration. She had a knack for storytelling, weaving tales that captivated our imaginations and made us feel like we were part of something magical. Whether it was sharing her own adventures or encouraging us to chase our dreams, Sister was always there, cheering us on with unwavering support.
As we bid farewell to our beloved Sister, let us remember the love she gave so freely and the joy she brought into our lives. In her honor, let us spread that love to others, just as she did. Let us gather in living rooms, share music, and create memories that echo with laughter, just as she would have wanted. Though she may have left this earthly realm, her spirit will forever dance in our hearts, reminding us to embrace life with the same enthusiasm and kindness she so effortlessly shared.
Rest in peace, dear Sister. You will be missed more than words can express, but your legacy of love will continue to shine brightly in all of us. Your laughter, your hugs, and your unwavering support will forever be cherished, and we promise to carry your light forward, sharing it with the world just as you did.
Shirley Jo Henson:
When I was a little boy, my Father lived across the street from Shirley, Ty and Kenny mainly- I also met the rest of the family along the way, but this is how it all began.
Immediately Me and Her Son became the best of friends-and eventually Brothers. She took me in when my family was going through really hard times nearly 22 years ago. I since have NOT forgotten about that.
She always included me like I was apart of the family no matter the genes. She treated me with respect, dignity, and was always trying to give the best advice possible to ensure that we did our absolute best.
Shirley Jo Henson; the Woman who put herself aside for everyone else. The Woman who always gave everything possible to ensure our success-while giving grace when earned, she was no stranger to “telling it like it is” when people weren’t doing good and struggling.
With that being said, she still gave her best. There’s not enough of anything on this universe that could ever repay what she did for Society all from her Home. She was a true hero in my eyes.
I am only one of many of her Kids that she adopted over the years. She mended my anger enough to where i could stand on my own feet and take care of myself. She took me in as an adult and gave me something that changed my life for the better. Opportunity and a happy home. Something that I never had consistently up until.
Never forced, she always gave options and not orders, and did it with a smile. The way she spoke, it was a gentle nudge to do the right things for yourself. She was really looking to the future for everyone.
All while this was going on-she faced loss over the years. Sometimes back to back. Strength should never be measured in muscle. When I looked at this Woman that I’m proud to call My God-Mother. But honestly-She was My 2nd Mother.
Her Wisdom unbounded, her heart as big as the world could handle. And the sheer determination and indomitable human spirit she carried. The people and family she brought up around her- and most of the time while she wasn’t having a good time; she pushed through.
This doesn’t even do Her enough Justice. This is just a mere spec of her Life through me. I really encourage others to share their story of Shirley Jo Henson and the Family. And how that changed your entire lives in the process.
I will never stop trying to add more photos of you here, Mom
